Marvin Bartel on tue 28 may 96
Here's a basement downer. Some basements have radon. Your local
county health department can advise you about available kits to check it
out. Fix it or move out.
I have a theory that some sort of adversity or uncomfort can have a
positive effect ones creativity? A basement may help in that it limits
distractions. If the nature of my task is creativily challenging, it may
not matter whether or not I have a window and view. If I am working on
routine stuff, it is especially nice to have windows, books on tape,
interesting radio programs, T.V., and a limited amount of music.
For me the choice between working in a basement and working in a
nearby above ground studio has been matter of economics. I worked in home
basement studios for about 20 years, and produced some fine work there. The
high school where I started teaching had the ceramics in a remodeled
basement coal bin with no windows. The universities and college jobs I've
had happened to be in basement classroom/studios (with windows near the
ceiling). When I could finally get a loan to build my own space above
ground with a view, I did it. I can't say my work is better with a window,
but I definitely find it more pleasant and if my work is better, it is
because I have more room and a bigger kiln that is easier to get to.
This summer I hope to move this computer out of my basement. Our
radon reading is just over the recommended limit, so I'm doing some venting
on that also.
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Marvin Bartel, Art Dept
Goshen College, Goshen, IN 46526
marvinpb@goshen.edu
http://www.goshen.edu
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